Best Fall Trip Destinations in the USA
Explore the best of the United States this season with this guide to the best fall trip destinations.
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Do you ever find yourself missing the warmth of summer but not looking forward to the cold of winter? If you're like me, summer is your favorite season, and winter just isn't your thing. But fall offers a special time to enjoy the changes happening around us, just like the changing of the leaves.
So, let's take a look at some of the top fall destinations in the country. Whether you're planning a trip with your family, a romantic weekend, or just some time alone to enjoy the season, this guide will give you tips and ideas to make the most of fall's beauty.
USA Trips Destinations for the Fall
In this article, we're going to explore some of the best places to visit in the USA during the fall. Whether you're looking to see beautiful autumn colors, cozy up by a warm fire, or enjoy pumpkin patches and fall festivals, this guide will help you find the perfect getaway this upcoming season. From the colors of New England to the small towns of the Midwest, there's something here for everyone who loves the fall season.
Before diving right in, here’s one quick but very important tip! Always get reliable travel insurance when planning for any solo adventure. I recommend SafetyWing. Their flexible policies cover incidents in over 185 countries, and I don’t need to provide a travel itinerary in advance. In fact, you can sign up for SafetyWing even if you’re already on the go.
Now, let’s get into it!
For Colorful Fall Foliage
To begun the list, I wanted to start with the obvious; the best fall trip destinations for fall foliage. The changing of the colors of the leaves is one of the main symbolizations of the season, why not see it up close and personal? All across the country, as the seasons change, the leaves slowy start to turn to hues of yellows and reds, especially in places such as these.
New England
New England is synonymous with fall foliage, and for good reason. Vermont’s rolling hills, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Maine’s forests, and Massachusetts’ scenic byways all offer a spectacular display of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Things to Do: Take a scenic drive through the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, hike to the summit of Mount Mansfield in Vermont, or explore the coastal towns of Maine. Don’t miss the chance to visit local farms and enjoy seasonal activities like apple picking and pumpkin festivals.
Tour Option: New England Fall Foliage and History Full Day Tour from Boston
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular destinations for fall foliage in the country. As the most visited national park in the United States, it’s a top spot to see the leaves change, with over 100 species of trees creating a mosaic of colors.
Things to Do: Hike the Alum Cave Trail for panoramic views, explore Cades Cove to see wildlife, or camp under the stars for a full nature experience. The park’s many overlooks offer perfect spots for photography and reflection.
Tour Option: Gatlinburg Ghost Tours
Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia and North Carolina
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile road that winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering some of the most beautiful views in the country. This drive is perfect for those who want to experience the colors of fall without leaving their car, though there are plenty of spots to stop and explore.
Things to Do: Take a drive along the parkway, stopping at overlooks like Mabry Mill and Craggy Gardens. Enjoy a hike on one of the many trails, or visit nearby attractions like the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC.
Tour Option: Blue Ridge Parkway Hiking Tours
Finger Lakes Region, New York
The Finger Lakes Region is known for its beautiful lakes, but it’s also a fantastic destination for fall. The vineyards and rolling hills are blanketed in autumn colors, making it a perfect spot for a fall getaway.
Things to Do: Combine your foliage viewing with wine tasting at one of the many wineries in the region. Take a boat tour on one of the lakes to see the fall colors from a different perspective, or explore the charming small towns that dot the area.
Tour Option: Finger Lakes Guided Outdoor Black Walnut Tour with Tasting
For Warm Weather Escapes
While I like the fall season, I am a beach girl at heart and can’t stand to be too far away from the ocean for long periods of time. If you’re someone who wants to see fall, and then quickly escape it, check out these warmer destinastions to travel to this season in the USA.
Maui, Hawaii
Maui is the perfect warm-weather escape, offering a tropical paradise with golden beaches and warm temperatures year-round. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore volcanic landscapes, Maui is an ideal fall destination for a warm-weather escape.
Things to Do: Spend your days lounging on the famous Kaanapali Beach, take a drive along the Road to Hana, or hike through Haleakalā National Park to watch the sunrise from the summit of a dormant volcano. Don’t miss snorkeling at Molokini Crater or experiencing a traditional Hawaiian luau.
Tour Option: West Maui Snorkel Guided Tour
Austin, Texas
Austin, known for its live music scene and culture, is a fantastic destination for those seeking warm weather with plenty of entertainment options. With mild fall temperatures, you can enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and food without the summer heat.
Things to Do: Explore the live music venues along Sixth Street, take a walk through Zilker Park, or kayak on Lady Bird Lake. Visit the Texas State Capitol, enjoy the famous food trucks, and don’t miss the opportunity to experience the nightlife.
Tour Option: Hill Country Wine Tasting Tours
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a top destination for families looking for a warm-weather escape filled with fun and adventure. With world-renowned theme parks, sunny weather, and plenty of attractions, it’s the perfect spot for a vacation that everyone will enjoy during the fall season.
Things to Do: Spend your days at Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld. When you’re not at the parks, relax by the pool, visit one of the many golf courses, or explore the nearby springs and lakes. Orlando also offers excellent shopping and dining options for every taste.
Tour Option: Orlando Sightseeing and Boat Cruise
For Outdoor Adventures
The changing of the leaves isn’t the only thing that happens during the fall season. Outdoor activities like apple picking, bonfires, football games, and hot cider tasting are amongst other things that come about this time of year. For outdoor adventures, here are some of the best fall destinations to check out.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, especially during the fall when it is painted with colors. This coastal park offers a variety of activities that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn.
Things to Do: Hike the Cadillac Mountain Summit Trail for views of the park, bike along the carriage roads, or kayak on the waters of Jordan Pond. Don’t miss a drive along the Park Loop Road, where you can stop at Sand Beach and Thunder Hole to experience the coastline.
Tour Option: Acadia National Park Tours
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering mountain scenery, abundant wildlife, and endless adventure opportunities. Fall is a wonderful time to visit, with crisp air and colorful foliage enhancing the already breathtaking views.
Things to Do: Explore Grand Teton National Park, where you can hike, fish, or take a drive to see the changing leaves. Wildlife enthusiasts can look for elk, moose, and even bears as they prepare for winter. For a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride to see the landscape from above or visit the nearby Yellowstone National Park.
Tour Option: Grand Tenton Half Day and Jackson Hole Tours
Big Sur Coast, California
The Big Sur Coast is a legendary destination for those seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and great scenery. The fall season brings cooler temperatures, making it ideal for exploring this dramatic stretch of California’s coastline.
Things to Do: Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway 1 for some of the most breathtaking views in the country, stopping at spots like Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls. Hike the trails in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park or Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where you can enjoy ocean views and towering redwoods. Consider taking a guided sea kayaking tour along the coast for a unique perspective.
Tour Option: Big Sur Guided Tours
For Unique Experiences
Finally, to comple the list of the best fall destinations in the USA, we have unique experiences. From Halloween extraveganzaz and festivals all around, fall is a fun season full of celebrations, ghost stories, and some of the most unique experiences of the year, such as these below.
Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, Massachusetts, is the ultimate destination for anyone who loves Halloween and the history surrounding it. Known for the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692, the town transforms into a hub of spooky attractions and events during the fall, making it a unique and thrilling experience.
Things to Do: Explore the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the town’s dark past, take a guided ghost tour through the streets, or visit the House of the Seven Gables for a dose of literature and history. During October, Salem hosts a variety of Halloween-themed events, including parades, haunted houses, and psychic fairs.
Tour Option: Salem Ghost Tours
Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth, often called “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” offers a fall experience with its Bavarian-style architecture, festive decorations, and atmosphere. This town is perfect for those who want to enjoy a European vibe without leaving the country.
Things to Do: Stroll through the town’s streets, visiting shops that sell handmade goods and Bavarian treats. Enjoy a traditional German meal at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant or Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth. In the fall, the town is beautifully decorated, and you can experience Oktoberfest celebrations, complete with live music, dancing, and plenty of beer.
Tour Option: Frankenmuth Scavenger Hunt Tour
Door County, Wisconsin
Door County is a hidden gem for fall travelers, offering a mix of outdoor beauty, cultural experiences, and small-town charm. Located between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, this region is known for its landscapes, lighthouses, and artistic community.
Things to Do: Visit the many art galleries and studios scattered throughout the county, or take a drive along the coastline to explore the area’s lighthouses. Go apple picking at a local orchard or enjoy a fish boil, a Door County specialty. The fall colors here are stunning, making it a perfect destination for photographers and nature lovers.
Tour Option: Peninsula Park Boat Tours
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque offers a truly unique fall experience with its annual International Balloon Fiesta, where the skies are filled with colorful hot air balloons. The combination of mild weather, cultural events, and stunning landscapes makes this city an unforgettable fall destination.
Things to Do: Attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, where hundreds of balloons are taken to the sky. Explore the Old Town, visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, or take a ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway for views of the Rio Grande Valley. The city also offers a rich culinary scene, with plenty of Southwestern cuisine to enjoy.
Tour Option: Hot Air Balloon Sunrise Rides
Even though I am sad to see summer fading away, fall is still better than winter. There’s a lot of peace and beauty in the fall season, plus a lot of football games. I hope this article has inspired you to embrace the changing of the seasons and go out to experience some of the best fall trip destinations during the next few months!